Adding a collaborator to a post after it's been published might seem tricky, but it's entirely possible depending on the platform you're using. This guide provides detailed instructions for several popular platforms, ensuring you can efficiently share authorship and credit where it's due.
Understanding the Importance of Post-Publication Collaboration
Collaborating on content is a fantastic way to boost reach, leverage diverse expertise, and enhance the overall quality of your work. Sometimes, the perfect collaborator comes to mind after the initial publishing. Knowing how to add them retroactively ensures proper credit and fosters stronger professional relationships.
This isn't just about fairness; it also impacts your SEO. Adding a collaborator can introduce new audiences through their networks, ultimately increasing your post's visibility and organic reach.
Adding Collaborators on Different Platforms
The process varies depending on where your post resides. Here's a breakdown for some popular platforms:
WordPress
Method 1: Using Author Roles and Permissions (Most Effective)
- Access WordPress Dashboard: Log in to your WordPress admin panel.
- Manage Users: Navigate to "Users" > "Add New". Create a new user account for your collaborator with appropriate permissions (Author or Contributor role).
- Edit Existing Post: Open the post you want to add the collaborator to.
- Change Author: In the post editor's settings (usually on the right sidebar), find the "Author" field. Select your collaborator's username from the dropdown menu.
- Update Post: Save your changes. Now your collaborator is officially listed as the author.
Method 2: Co-Authorship Plugin (for more complex scenarios)
Several WordPress plugins allow for multiple authors on a single post. Search for "co-author" plugins in your WordPress plugin directory. These often offer more nuanced control over author attribution. Remember to choose a reputable and well-maintained plugin.
Medium
Medium's approach to collaboration is slightly different. You can't retroactively change authorship like in WordPress, but you can credit collaborators.
- Edit Your Post: Open the post you want to add a collaborator to.
- Add a Note: Include a note at the beginning or end of your post clearly crediting your collaborator. Mention their name and possibly their website or social media profile.
- Consider Cross-Promotion: Ask your collaborator to share the post on their own Medium profile or social channels to further expand its reach.
This approach ensures your collaborator receives deserved recognition, even without direct author attribution within Medium's system.
Other Platforms (Blogger, LinkedIn, etc.)
Most other platforms lack a built-in feature for adding collaborators after publication. The best approach is similar to Medium – clearly credit them within the post itself. You can also mention them in the comments section or tag them on social media to promote the post collaboratively.
Off-Page SEO and Collaboration
Adding a collaborator is not just about on-page optimization. It significantly contributes to your off-page SEO strategy:
- Backlinks: Your collaborator might link to the post from their website or social media, providing valuable backlinks that boost your search engine rankings.
- Social Shares: Collaborators will often share the post with their networks, increasing visibility and driving traffic.
- Increased Authority: Collaborating with established figures in your niche can improve your content's perceived authority and trustworthiness in the eyes of search engines.
Remember to always communicate transparently with your collaborator regarding authorship, credit, and promotional efforts. A strong collaborative relationship will benefit both of you in the long run.
